Oath

This is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best episode in the whole of Vinland Saga. Probably reaches near top 10 in all of anime, and is undoubtedly the best balance of action, drama and respite I've seen in an episode of the show.

As usual we have all the components of this season: Thorfinn's regret, Einar's will, the suffering they feel together. But this episode takes it further. I've said these characters feel realistic to me previously but the level on which the show artistically conveyed these emotions was something incredible. MAPPA is usually good with emotional moments, but I feel as if the art and adaptation was probably unlike anything they did with Attack on Titan in the sense there was not any malice or evil behind Thorfinn.

A masterclass of an episode. Watch. This. Show.

And see Thorfinn become a true warrior.

Thorfinn attempts to strike a balance between his regrets and redemption. He is suffering as a result of his previous deeds, but we can't hold it against him-he was just a child. Furthermore, in the episode "Oath," Thorfinn's regrets are explored in further detail. And offers insight into the themes of the series, such as the cost of violence and the pursuit of a peaceful existence. The episode is a nuanced exploration of Thorfinn's condition, with complex characters and themes, as well as an entertaining watching experience provided by the animation and soundtrack, which keep getting better. And that leaves a lasting impression on me.

This was an unforgetable episode! Thorfinn is confronted with his past in a way i will nrver forget! I had all kinds of emotions watching this! I could feel the tears at time! This was art! This was legendary!

As Thorfinn is confronted with who he is amd who he was, we get some of the BEST character development i have ever seen! It is never to late to change and face yourself! God level writing!

The animation was amazing! Shots and scenes printed in my mind! A dark and disturbing atmosphere combined with the great soundtrack!

This was one of the best episodes of the show! Season 2 does not dissapoint!

Literally a masterpiece. Never thought I'd see episode dethrones AOT's Friday episode. WOW, WOW, WOW. This episode included all the technical elements that we usually see in masterful movies. Creative directing, well-done dialogues, and eye-pleasing drawing. What makes this episode the best in this season is the appearance of the great character Ashilad, who we have always admired and missed in this season. I liked the writer's philosophy. And the contrast between Thors' and Ashilad's conversation addressed to Thorfinn. "Nobody is your enemy" says Thors, "Everyone but you is your enemy" says Ashilad. I love this Anime man. Looking forward for the new era Thorfinn.

Episode delivers a major emotional breakthrough in Thorfinn's long journey toward redemption. After episodes of inner silence, nightmares, and brooding guilt, this chapter finally gives us a glimpse of a man beginning to rise from the ashes of his former self.

The core of the episode is Thorfinn's internal awakening. After another brutal dream-one where he falls into a pit of corpses and comes face to face with a younger version of himself-Thorfinn begins to truly confront what he's become. It's not a dramatic outburst, but a quiet, devastating realization: he has no idea how many people he's killed. He was a weapon without a purpose, and now, stripped of violence, he's forced to reckon with the void inside.

This emotional reckoning culminates in the episode's defining moment-Thorfinn making an oath: that he will never hurt anyone again. It's a radical, vulnerable declaration that feels earned, not idealistic. In a world where violence is survival, Thorfinn's vow is both brave and tragic. It's not a solution-it's a starting point.

Visually, this episode is rich with symbolism. The recurring dreamscape, the imagery of falling bodies, and the stillness of the fields all mirror Thorfinn's internal state. The direction is patient, almost reverent, giving space for reflection.

A quiet yet profound turning point that trades bloodshed for soul-searching-and gives Thorfinn a second chance at life.